Island Biology 2026 - Excursions

Island Biology 2026

For IBC2026, we are pleased to offer two mid-conference excursions and seven six pre- and post-conference excursions (the Amami excursion, Post4, has been cancelled). Please note that participation in the pre- and post-conference excursions will be limited due to the capacity of the destination islands.

Please note that all excursions will be closed once capacity is reached.

✨ New!

Pre, Mid, and Post-Conference Excursions: Registration Now Closed

Registration for all conference excursions (Pre, Mid, and Post-conference) is now officially closed.

Excursions

We kindly ask for your cooperation on a very important matter: strict measures against invasive species. As this is a congress dedicated to island biology, bringing in non-native species must be strictly avoided. If you plan to travel with trekking shoes or backpacks commonly used in the field, please ensure they are thoroughly cleaned before entering Japan. Shoes must be completely free of mud, and backpack pockets should be rinsed thoroughly with water to prevent the introduction of plant seeds or small animals.

In addition, each island has its own local rules. Please follow the instructions of your guide and respect the regulations of the destination. Kindly note that some guides may not be fully fluent in English.

Mid-Conference Excursions

Mid1. Oshima Island: Volcanic Landscapes, Coastal Geology, and Island Heritage

Trip Leaders: Ms. Kana Nishitani (Global Nature Club)
Dates: Nov 4, 2026

This large-scale field trip to Oshima Island accommodates up to 150 participants and explores the island’s dynamic volcanic terrain, coastal formations, and cultural sites. Participants will be divided into multiple groups to visit key locations such as Mt. Mihara, the Ura Desert, and scenic coastal routes.

- Nov. 4: Depart Atami Port at 9:10 via Tokai Kisen ferry. Arrive at Motomachi or Okata Port (Oshima Island) at 9:55.

- Group 1: Mt. Mihara summit course (10:35–15:00)

- Group 2: Ura Desert course (10:30–15:00)

- Group 3: Coastal loop (counterclockwise) visiting Akahage, Nodahama, Buratto House, Yōgoshi Cape, Senzu Pass, and Habu Shrine

- Return to Motomachi or Okata Port by 15:30 and ferry back to Atami (arrival at 16:15).

Subject to change depending on weather conditions.

Difficulty: Easy

All travel is by chartered bus with short walks at each site. Suitable for all participants.

Logistics: Participants will gather at Atami Port.
Cost: 22,000 JPY (includes ferry fare, bus charter, and guide fees)

Lunch is self-arranged (participants should bring their own).

Capacity: 150 people
Links:

https://izuoshima-geo.org/en/

@IzuOshimaMuseum

Mt. Mihara on Izu Oshima, a central volcano known for its dramatic crater and lava landscapes.

The Great Strata Cut on Izu Oshima, a spectacular volcanic layer formation nicknamed the “Baumkuchen.”

Saxifraga fortunei

Smilax china

Mid2. Museum of Natural and Environment History, Shizuoka: Earth Systems, Biodiversity, and Landscape Views

Trip Leaders: Dr. Toshiro Kishimoto (Museum of Natural and Environment History, Shizuoka)
Date: Nov 4, 2026

This one-day mid-conference excursion offers participants a visit to the Museum of Natural and Environmental History, Shizuoka, which highlights the geological, ecological, and cultural evolution of the region. The program includes a guided rotation through the museum’s main exhibits, behind-the-scenes collections, and a short nature walk behind the museum. The afternoon features a scenic stop at Jukkoku Pass and a brief visit to Atami’s local shopping area.

- 08:15: Depart from conference venue in Atami by chartered bus

- 10:00–12:30: Visit to Museum of Natural and Environment History, Shizuoka

- Free exploration of the main exhibition

- Behind-the-scenes tour of the museum’s collections

- Guided walk in the forested hill behind the museum

- 12:30–13:30: Lunch inside the museum (self-provided)

-13:30–15:00: Visit to Jukkoku Pass (panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and Izu Peninsula)

- 16:30–17:00: Stop at Lasca Atami (local shopping and rest)

- 17:30: Return to conference venue in Atami

Difficulty: Easy

Includes short walks and indoor activities; suitable for all participants.

Logistics: Transportation by chartered bus from and to the conference venue in Atami. Admission to the museum is included; lunch is self-provided.
Cost: 8,500 JPY (includes local transportation)

Lunch is self-arranged (participants should bring their own).

Capacity: 80 people
Links:

https://www.fujimu100.jp/en/

https://www.ataminews.gr.jp/spot/120

Photos: Nacasa ＆ Partners

Pre-conference Excursions

Pre1. Kozushima Island: Mt. Tenjo Flora and Island Landscapes

Trip leaders: Dr. Leiko Mizusawa (Fukushima University)
Dates: 29 Oct – 1 Nov, 2026

This 4-day field trip explores the unique volcanic landscape and biodiversity of Kozushima Island, part of the Izu Islands. Participants will travel to Atami on the first night (October 29) for an overnight stay, and head to Shimoda the following morning to catch the ferry. The trip includes two full days exploring the island’s lowland vegetation and montane ecosystems, a guided hike to Mt. Tenjo, and stargazing opportunities. Meals on board are not provided.

- Oct. 29: Overnight stay in Atami (Atami New Fujiya Hotel).

- Oct. 30: Travel by train to Shimoda, then take the 09:30 Shinshin Kisen ferry from Shimoda to Kozushima (arrival around 13:00). Explore lowland areas and coastal vegetation.

- Oct. 31: Full-day hike to Mt. Tenjo to observe endemic plant species and volcanic terrain (details to be coordinated with Dr. Takashi Kamijo, University of Tsukuba), followed by night sky observation.

- Nov. 1: Depart Kozushima in the morning. Return via Oshima and arrive in Atami by late afternoon.

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

This excursion involves a round-trip hike of approximately 4–6 hours, including breaks, with an elevation gain of about 500 meters. The trail is well-maintained but includes some steep sections. In addition, a nighttime stargazing activity adds to the overall physical demand.

Logistics: You will need to arrange your own transportation to Takeshiba Pier, either by Shinkansen or local JR train. The nearest stations to the pier are Hamamatsuchō Station (JR) or Takeshiba Station on the Tokyo Monorail.
Cost: 70,000 JPY (includes lodging, two breakfasts, two dinners, guide fees, and local transportation; lunch not included)
Capacity: 10 people
Links:

https://kozushima.com/

Mt. Tenjo on Kozushima, often covered with clouds.

Pre2. Yakushima Island: Subtropical Forests, Island Ecology, and Conservation Practices

Trip leaders: Dr. Harue Abe (Niigata University), coordinated by Yakushima Academy (contact: Ms. Yuko Kitayama)
Dates: Oct 28 – Oct 31, 2026

This 4-day pre-excursion offers an immersive experience on Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient forests, endemic species, and dynamic island ecosystems. Participants will explore a range of natural environments and conservation initiatives guided by local experts from Yakushima Academy.

- Oct. 28: Flight from Haneda to Yakushima via Kagoshima (JAL). Arrival at Yakushima Airport at 17:35.

- Oct. 29–30: Full-day guided field programs organized by Yakushima Academy, including visits to forested areas, coastal ecosystems, and cultural sites. Activities will be tailored to the group’s interests and weather conditions.

- Oct. 31: Return flight from Yakushima to Haneda via Kagoshima.

Difficulty: Moderate – Activities include walking on forest trails and uneven terrain. Participants should be prepared for variable weather and humid conditions.
Logistics: Participants will travel from Atami to Haneda Airport by either Shinkansen or local JR train (self-arranged).
Cost: 218,000 JPY (includes airfare estimate, lodging, meals, guide and coordination fees, and chartered bus)

- Accommodation: 3 nights at Yakushima Green Hotel (twin and single rooms).

- Meals: Includes 3 breakfasts and 3 dinners; 2 lunches will be arranged.

Capacity: 16 people
Links:

https://yakukan-jp.translate.goog/?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja

Post-conference Excursions

Post1. Sado Island: Forests, Grasslands, and Crested Ibis Conservation

Trip leaders: Dr. Harue Abe (Niigata University), Dr. Hitoshi Sakio (Botanical Academy)
Dates: Nov 7 – Nov 9, 2026

This 3-day field trip explores the diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage of Sado Island, located off the coast of Niigata Prefecture. Participants will visit natural forests, semi-natural grasslands, and conservation sites, with expert guidance from local researchers.

- Nov. 7: Arrival at Ryotsu Port (15:00), followed by transfer to hotel and evening seminar (20:00–21:00)

- Nov. 8: Full-day visit to Niigata University’s Forest Reserve to observe native forest (featuring natural Japanese cedar and colorful autumn broadleaf trees) and grassland ecosystems, including a lecture and guided walk (10:10–16:00)

- Nov. 9: Excursion to Mt. Donden (semi-natural grasslands), followed by a visit to Tokiterrace to learn about the conservation of the endangered Japanese Crested Ibis (Nipponia nippon) and the agricultural landscape of the Kuninaka Plain

Difficulty: Moderate

Most travel is by vehicle with short walks in forest and grassland areas. Suitable for participants with general fitness.

Logistics: Participants must arrange their own transportation from Atami to Niigata Station, either by Shinkansen or local JR train. From Niigata Station, the Sado Kisen Ferry Terminal is approximately 15 minutes away by taxi or 20–25 minutes by local bus. From the ferry terminal, take the Sado Kisen ferry to Ryotsu Port on Sado Island (approx. 2.5 hours by car ferry or 1 hour by jetfoil). Transportation from Ryotsu Port to the hotel on Nov. 7 will be arranged by chartered taxi. Field transport on Nov. 8–9 will be provided by university vehicles.
Cost: 53,000 JPY (includes lodging, meals—two breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners—guide fees, and local transportation)
Capacity: 10 people
Links:

https://www.visitsado.com/en/

Mogera tokudae (Sado mole)

The cedar forests of Sado Island.

Glandirana susurra (Sado Wrinkled Frog)

Nipponia nippon (Crested Ibis)

Post2. Ogasawara Islands: Biodiversity, Adaptive Radiation and Island Restoration

Trip leaders: Dr. Haruko Ando (NIES), Dr. Koji Takayama (Tokyo Metropolitan University), coordinated by Wanaka (Mr. Hiroshi Sato)
Dates: Nov 7 – Nov 12, 2026

This 6-day, 3-night tour includes two nights aboard ship and three days of field activities on Chichijima in the Ogasawara Islands, Japan’s most remote oceanic archipelago.

- Nov 7, 11:00 – July 8, 11:00: Overnight voyage to Chichijima. During the 24-hour crossing, participants can observe seabirds and marine life in the open Pacific.

- Nov 8–11: Field activities on Chichijima, including:

- Guided interpretation by local researchers, conservation specialists, and Ogasawara-based researchers.

- Exploration of dry scrub forests from Higashidaira to Hatsuneyama, featuring endemic plants such as Hibiscus glaber and Callicarpa species, which have undergone adaptive radiation on the islands.

- Possible sightings of the endangered red-headed wood pigeon (Columba janthina nitens).

- Sunset tour to observe the Ogasawara flying fox (Pteropus pselaphon).

- Cultural heritage sites at Ogiura and Yoakeyama, including 19th-century settlement remains and WWII-era structures.

- One-day hiking to Heart Rock, offering spectacular views from the summit and distant vistas of the submerged karst landscapes around Minamijima.

- Stops at the Visitor Center, World Heritage Center, and local beaches.

- Nov 11 – 12, Return voyage to mainland Japan aboard ship.

Difficulty: Moderate

The 24-hour ferry ride from Tokyo can be challenging for those prone to seasickness, so motion sickness medication is recommended. After arriving on Chichijima, the program includes a one-day low‑mountain hike. The course follows unpaved mountain trails with some steep sections, but it is generally manageable for participants who are accustomed to hiking, trekking, or mountaineering.

Logistics:

You will need to arrange your own transportation from Atami to Takeshiba Pier, either by Shinkansen or local JR train. The nearest stations to the pier are Hamamatsuchō Station (JR) or Takeshiba Station on the Tokyo Monorail.

Cost: 158,000 JPY (includes lodging; meals—three breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners; guide fees; and local transportation including the ferry fee. Meals on board the ferry are not provided)
Capacity: 8 people
Links:

https://www.ogasawaramura.com/en/

Pteropus pselaphon (Bonin flying fox)

Miyanohama Beach on Chichijima.

Columba janthina nitens (Red-headed Wood Pigeon)

Dry scrub in the Chichijima Islands.

Post3. Seto Inland Sea: Island Ecology, Wild Boar, and Cultural Landscapes

Trip leaders: Dr. Takeo Kuriyama (University of Hyogo)
Dates: Nov 7 – Nov 9, 2026

This 3-day field trip explores the ecological and cultural dynamics of the Seto Inland Sea, focusing on island biodiversity, human-wildlife interactions, and historical landscapes. Participants will visit Ie Island and surrounding areas, engage with local conservation practitioners, and enjoy regional cuisine.

- Nov. 7: Travel from Atami to Himeji via Shinkansen (self-arranged), then bus to Himeji Port and ferry to the Island (arrival at Maura Port). Evening welcome dinner with a local wild boar hunter, featuring sashimi and game meat.

- Nov. 8: Morning island walk with optional guided interpretation. Afternoon boat cruise to uninhabited islands (optional charter). Evening catered dinner at the lodge.

- Nov. 9: Depart Ie Island by ferry, visit Tegarayama Botanical Garden and Himeji Castle before disbanding at 16:00.

Difficulty: Easy

Most travel is by public transport and boat, with short walks and optional activities.

Logistics: Participants must arrange their own transportation from Atami to Himeji Station via Shinkansen (approx. 3 hours). From Himeji Station, take a local bus to Himeji Port (approx. 30 minutes), then board the Takafuku Liner ferry to Ie Island (approx. 30 minutes).
Cost: 42,000 JPY (includes lodging, meals, guide fees, and local transportation)

Accommodation: 2 nights at Ieshima Hare Terrace.

Meals: Two breakfasts and two dinners are provided; no lunch is included.

Bus charter and entrance to Himeji Castle are included in the estimate.

Capacity: 8 people
Links: https://www.setouchi.travel/en/
Ieshima Island: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GV3FA9NQwfyDz5Xk6

The townscape of Ieshima in the Seto Inland Sea.

Take a cruise to uninhabited islands on a small boat.

The wild boar piglet.

Post4. Amami Island: Subtropical Forests, Endemic Wildlife, and Island Culture CANCELLED!!

Details will be announced soon.

Trip leaders：Dr. Yuya Watari (FFPRI)

Links:

https://amami-whcc.jp/en/

Pentalagus furnessi (Amami rabbit)

Odorrana ishikawae（Ishikawa's frog）

Ayamaru Cape in Amami is a scenic seaside spot.

Post5. Iriomote-jima Island: Subtropical Forests, Endemic Wildlife, and Conservation Practices

Trip leaders: Dr. Shun Kobayashi, Dr. Masako Izawa (University of the Ryukyus)
Dates: Nov 7 – Nov 10, 2026

This 4-day field trip explores the subtropical ecosystems of Iriomote-jima Island, a Natural World Heritage site known for its evergreen forests, coral reefs, and mangrove-lined coasts. Participants will engage in guided fieldwork focused on endemic and endangered species such as the Iriomote cat (Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis), crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela perplexus), and yellow-margined box turtle (Cuora flavomarginata evelynae), as well as conservation efforts and ecotourism practices.

- Nov. 7: Meet at Ishigaki Port (Ishigaki Ritou Terminal) at 15:30. Travel by boat to Iriomote-jima Island (departing around 16:00–16:30). Dinner at the accommodation followed by an evening briefing on the island and tour schedule.

- Nov. 8: Full-day field trip to the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center, trail walk in the Inaba area, and conservation activities focused on wildlife traffic accidents. Includes lunch box. Night tour (scheduled for this night or the next depending on weather).

- Nov. 9: Full-day field trip to the Urauchi River and mountain trail walk. Includes lunch box.

- Nov. 10: Depart accommodation at 8:30 and travel to Uehara Port for return boat to Ishigaki-jima Island.

Difficulty: Moderate

Includes trail walking and light hiking in humid subtropical conditions. Night tour may involve walking in low-light environments.

Logistics: Participants must arrange their own transportation from Atami to Ishigaki Airport via direct or connecting flights. From Ishigaki Airport, travel by bus or taxi to Ishigaki Port (Ishigaki Ritou Terminal). Boat transportation from Ishigaki-jima Island to Iriomote-jima Island is included in the program.
Cost: 102,000 JPY per person (price subject to change, includes lodging, meals, boat fares, guide fees; airfare and airport transfers not included)

- Accommodation: 3 nights on Iriomote-jima Island (includes three breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners).

- Local transportation, Urauchi River boat, and guide fees are included.

Capacity: 7 people
Links:

https://painusima.com/english/

https://iwcc.jp/english/

Cuora flavomarginata evelynae (Ryukyu Yellow-margined Box Turtle)

Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis (Iriomote Wildcat)

Spilornis cheela (Crested Serpent Eagle)

The Nakama River on Iriomote Island features Japan’s largest mangrove forest.

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